Police officer who helped lead search for Nicola Bulley dies aged 50 | UK News

The assistant chief constable of Lancashire Police, who played a prominent role in the search for Nicola Bulley earlier this year, has died aged 50.

Peter Lawson died at home this morning, the force announced in a statement, with the death believed to be ‘medical-related’.

He was one of the public faces of the police search for Ms Bulley in February, and led press conferences as the story drew national interest.

Chief Constable Chris Rowley, of Lancashire Constabulary, described Mr Lawson as ‘highly respected and admired’ by his colleagues.

He said: ‘This is incredibly sad and tragic news. My thoughts and prayers are with all of Pete’s family and friends at this difficult time.

‘Pete’s death will come as a shock to the entire force and the wider police family across the country.

‘He was an outstanding officer who served the communities of Lancashire with pride. He was also highly respected and admired by all who knew him and worked with him.

‘Our deepest condolences go out to his family and we will support them as much as we can.

‘We want to respect their privacy and would ask that the public and media do so too.’

He added: ‘We will offer support to all our staff and those who worked with Pete, as we mourn his loss.’

After starting his career in Preston, Mr Lawson went on to assist in policing high-profile events from sporting occasions to protests.

He became assistance chief constable of Lancashire Police in 2019.

Alongside his colleague Rebecca Smith, he fronted a number of press conferences to give updates on Ms Bulley, who disappeared on January 27.

The body of the mother-of-two was found in the River Wye just over three weeks later.

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